In my opinion, travelling is the best way to learn about the different cultures of the world. No article (however descriptive it may be) can substitute the experience of setting foot in a foreign place. Through travel, we are given an opportunity to embrace the culture of other people. In this light, the most fascinating place that I have visited is Costa Rica.
Throughout our stay, my family and I avoided using tour guides, believing that tours do not have the same effect as getting to know the country on your known. In doing so, we really got a taste of the Costa Rican culture. On the first day, we canopied on a zip line through therainforest. As I waited to jump off at the intervals, I stopped every now and then in awe of my surroundings. It was incredible to me how wildlife such as: the red-eyed tree frog, the howler monkey and the morpho butterfly could be so easily spotted.
Day 3
June 21, 2009
On our third day, we decided to take a hike though the rainforest. To our surprise, there were horses when at the trail. The pathway was very narrow and the horses were rather large; it was one of the most adventurous things I’ve ever done. As sundown approached, we saw the colors of the sky swiftly evolve into a soft pink atop the mountain overlooking the beautiful Jaco Beach; it was a breathtaking sight. That night we dined in a family-owned restaurant with traditional Costa-Rican food which included: gallo pinto (rice with black beans), carne asada (seasoned meat), tortillas and fried plantain.
Day 4
June 22, 2009
Because of the sight from the mountain, we decided to visit Jaco Beach. The beaches in Costa Rica are covered in lava rocks due to the volcanoes in the region. Later that day, we visited “The Springs Resort and Spa” which has hot springs. When my family and I submerged ourselves in the boiling waters, we actually began to sweat in the water.
Day 5:
June 23, 2009
My last day in Costa Rica was bittersweet. On our way to the airport, I couldn’t help but wonder if I would ever have the chance to come back and see more of what this exotic paradise has to offer. I believe that I learned more about this particular country because my visit gave me a hands-on experience that I will never forget. I learned that Costa Rica’s biodiversity is due majorly in part to its location between North and South America. Besides the beautiful environment, the Costa Rican way of life is one of the most interesting parts of the country. The common saying in Costa Rica is “Pura Vida” in other words “That’s Life”. They are a very laid-back, humble type of people. I only hope that my journal has enticed all who read it to visit Costa Rica and discover an awe-inspiring land full of unknown experiences that are yours for the taking.
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